There’s a beer that pairs deliciously well with your favorite salad, signature side dish, and yes, even dessert. And that’s because beer brings layers of flavors and aromas to the table that take a regular plate and turn it into an experience.
Ready to take flavor to the next level? Our Master Cicerone says it best: It’s all about your unique experience. Just have fun and don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors until you discover something you love. But if you’re looking for some starter tips, “The Three C’s” is a good place to start.
CUT
Beer is the perfect palate cleanser. And that’s because the carbonation, alcohol and hops from beer “cut through” the flavors and textures on your taste buds, making each bite taste just as flavorful as the first. For instance, the classic American Lager has a crisp, clean taste that cuts through our favorite fried foods.
COMPLEMENT
The idea here is to pair beer and food that share similar flavors and characteristics. Delicate dishes work best with delicate beers, and strongly flavored foods go great with beers that have more intense flavors and aromas. Your steak or burger deserves a roasted-malt Porter because the flavors complement the smoky char on the grilled meat.
CONTRAST
Everyone says opposites attract, and that’s especially true for beer and food. When mixed together, you can push and pull tastes, bringing out unique characteristics in both your pint and your plate. The sweet and tart notes found in Fruit Beers perfectly contrast the bittersweet chocolate and espresso notes in chocolate cake. Paired together, these flavors give you a taste of chocolate-covered berries.
Now that you’re ready to pair like a pro, check out our original recipes, or find your favorite beer style.
